New Mars Filter

Hi,

As some of you know, I use the Variable Filter System from Sirius Optics, which is a bit pricey. Using a 6" scope, 2 versions of this filter have worked really well for me. IMO, I find them to work better than the Wrattens.

Anyway, I played a very small part in beta testing a so-called "Mars" filter. The latest version has arrived. By just looking at stuff around the house, this filter demonstrably heightens all reds, greens, blue/greens and blues. Yellows get squashed and are turned into an very light salmon or orange color. I believe that this filter will be one of the best for Mars and possibly some other objects. It looks like it may squash some sodium vapor light lines as well, so it may act like a light weight LPR filter.

This filter took a short time to develope. I was told that they are now available from retailers at $40 US. Past experience has shown me that S.O. filters are pretty much transparent to all usable magnifications.

Below is a scan of the filter I received today. I let you know how well it does at my earliest opportunity.

I hope you don't think this to be a gosh posting,

Sol Robbins

Attached Image:

Hi Sol,

I'd be very interested in know how the "Mars filter" compared with color filters. Will it show more or enhanced details not visible with #21, #23, #25, #80A, #38, #56 filters. In other words, will there be benefit from using this new filter over the color filters?

Thanks,
Ron B[ee]